Wednesday, January 16, 2008

The results are in!

Well, after going for my PetScan last Thursday, my follow-up to discuss the results with Oncologist Dr. Baliban was today and I'd like to say that the PetScan showed no sign of cancer!!!!!
I still have another appointment with the ENT Dr. Straka set for next Wednesday. He will give his opinion on the PetScan results and decide if there is a need for surgery or not.
Based on what Dr. Baliban told me, I don't think there will be a need for surgery, but we'll wait and see!
Dr. Baliban said I was clear to return to work as far as he was concerned, but again we'll see what Dr. Straka says. I still have the trach and stomach tube and am only eating minimal amounts of food and liquids as swallowing is still somewhat difficult.
Dr. Straka should make a determination about the trach tube on Wednesday as to how much longer that will be needed and the stomach tubes removal will be based solely on me and how my food intake is proceeding.
So good news so far and it looks like everyone's prayers for me are paying off and I am more appreciative of that than any of you will ever know!
God Bless and watch for my next update in about a week!
Love to everyone,
Tom

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Tom, that is GREAT news! I knew you had it in you to fight this to the end. That is wonderful. I was in PHX Monday and Tuesday for a manager's meeting. I saw Ernie Hillenbrand. Do you remember him? It was nice to actually see the upper management team. Doug Parker has got a great sense of humor. And that Elise, she is really witty. WEll, glad you are doing better and I can't wait for you to feel normal again and regain your normal life. Best Wishes, Jennifer Gibbs

Anonymous said...

PetScan showed no sign of cancer!!!!!

Thats the news we wanted to hear. Awesome! We'll be praying for a speedy recovery now. -Darren

Anonymous said...

Fabulous, stupendous, phenomenal, exceptional, fantastic, tremendous, marvelous, amazing, outstanding, and superb news!!! This is a memorable day we won't ever forget.
love,
Teresa, Steve and Matthew

Anonymous said...

...now you should have no excuse for working on your golf game - except maybe the weather!

Teresa, Steve, and Matthew

Anonymous said...

Hey Tom:

Al Merkel and family here. Great news!!! We are so happy for you! I have a co-worker now getting to go through the same treatment as yourself and I've provide him a link to your blog --- for encouragement and inspiration.

love,

Merkel family in Rowlett, Texas

Anonymous said...

Cuz,

Reading your current update, you seem on your road to recovery. Hopefully, our prayers help, but it is your determination and attitude that keeps you moving towards full recovery.
Glad to hear you are working out in order to get ready for golf and bowling seasons - If I could just teach you how to fish :) !!

With love and concern,

Cousin Gregg